UCD Michael Tierney Building

Contracting Authority: University College Dublin

Complete: 2019

The Michael Tierney Building at University College Dublin has served as the campus’s primary administration building since 1972. This project involved the 805m² refurbishment of a significant portion of the first floor to increase occupancy, improve departmental connectivity and adjacencies, and create a more contemporary work environment.

The design reorganised departments into a fluid, open, and transparent layout, reimagining the traditional office model. Office depths were reduced, and circulation routes were lined with continuous double-glazed, oak-framed glass partitions, allowing natural daylight to penetrate deep into the plan while maintaining visual connections to mature trees and the campus’s north pond. These views support biophilic principles, reducing stress and enhancing productivity. A new breakout space was carved along the northwest façade beside the Bursar’s office, maximising views of the pond and campus activity.

The façade glazing was replaced with a curtain wall system matching the neighbouring Arts Building to ensure architectural continuity. Exposed concrete waffle slabs were restored, while oak meeting pods and UCD-inspired colours add vibrancy and identity.